Left Demopolis at 08:45 - waited for a tow/barge to go through [see photo of tow in front of Marina entrance heading for the lock; also photo of buddy boat Manifest as Lock opening]. After that, great travel day [photo of Manifest - waters smooth; also evidence of flood, with 'steps' going up shore showing levels every few days]; and larger branches which were easily avoided. Weather initially cloudy, but 54 became intermittent sun at 70+. Arrived at Bobby's at 16:30 [4:30]; docked upstream against the face of his pier due to the high current; always best to put your bow into the current or wind if possible - get better control.
Unfortunately, he doesn't have any power hookup due to the recent flooding which damaged his power panels [15ft above current river!]. So we will be running the generator all night for the a/c and to keep the freezer cold. Our buddy boat will be doing the same. We had docktails on our boat with them to review the day and the world's changes re corona virus.
My daily check of the engines, etc, and oil levels great; the water strainers are clear [engines are cooled with 'raw' water strained from the river, so junk doesn't get into the coolers and filters; the a/c is a heat exchange system transfering heat either from the water when you want warm air or to the water when you need a/c. If the strainers become plugged, the flow of cooling water drops and the engine could overheat].
Our Chris is much better today! Flu it is. Everywhere meetings are being cancelled, travel is restricted, and communities are closing down. We wait to see how this will affect our boating community [not much as each boat is already relatively quarantined and everyone is practicing good social distancing].
Tomorrow, we leave at 07:30 and travel downstream 100 miles to an anchorage at mile 16, allowing a shorter/easier Wednesday going through Mobile Harbor. May not have internet tomorrow. So, stay safe, and be patient; this too shall pass.
Comments:
Wayne • 17 Mar, 2020: Many years ago, when we lived in Melfort, we knew a very wise Doctor who predicted this virus. He didn't say what it would be called but was obviously wise beyond his years. Speaking of wisdom and upon Kim's encouragement, we packed up and are heading home but not at our usual leisurely pace. Safe travels once again you two.